Apply now to the Pathways to Shipbuilding Program

J.D. Irving, Limited and their partners are encouraging Indigenous Canadians to enter the shipbuilding industry through a pilot program that integrates education, industry, and community partners. In May of this year, ten partners representing industry, government, and Canada’s Indigenous history announced the launch of an education and apprenticeship pilot program to create job opportunities for 20 Indigenous students in metal fabrication. The program is offered through the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) Akerley Campus in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

In the next three to five years, Irving Shipbuilding Inc. anticipates that the industry will undergo significant growth as a result of the National Shipbuilding Strategy. In anticipation of this, Irving Shipbuilding’s Centre of Excellence is dedicated to providing pathways for Nova Scotians to enter the shipbuilding industry, with particular focus on under-represented groups.

A fourteen week customized introductory program (this September) will be followed by the two-year metal fabrication program at Nova Scotia Community College’s Akerley Campus.

Participants in the program will learn and work together over the course of two years. They will be mentored and coached by community and industry supporters including other Indigenous employees working at the Halifax Shipyard. Successful student applicants who are Aboriginal, a High School Graduate, and willing to relocate to Halifax/Dartmouth have the chance to be offered an opportunity to discover a career in shipbuilding at Irving Shipyard.

The Mi’kmaq Native Friendship Centre in Halifax is the community partner for the program and will be managing – in collaboration with other Indigenous organizations – the recruitment process and providing support services to the students in Halifax.

“Pathways to Shipbuilding” Project Applicant Qualifications:

• Must be Aboriginal;• Must be willing to relocate to Halifax/Dartmouth;• Must have a High School diploma or equivalent (ALP, GED);• Must be able to pass a high security clearance screening

If you are unable to attend an information session and would like to apply, please send your resume and transcripts to shipbuild2016@gmail.com. For more information please contact Tonia Marshall, “Pathways to Shipbuilding” Project Coordinator at (902) 420-1576.